DNA replication components as regulators of epigenetic inheritance--lesson from fission yeast centromere

Protein Cell. 2014 Jun;5(6):411-9. doi: 10.1007/s13238-014-0049-9. Epub 2014 Apr 2.

Abstract

Genetic information stored in DNA is accurately copied and transferred to subsequent generations through DNA replication. This process is accomplished through the concerted actions of highly conserved DNA replication components. Epigenetic information stored in the form of histone modifications and DNA methylation, constitutes a second layer of regulatory information important for many cellular processes, such as gene expression regulation, chromatin organization, and genome stability. During DNA replication, epigenetic information must also be faithfully transmitted to subsequent generations. How this monumental task is achieved remains poorly understood. In this review, we will discuss recent advances on the role of DNA replication components in the inheritance of epigenetic marks, with a particular focus on epigenetic regulation in fission yeast. Based on these findings, we propose that specific DNA replication components function as key regulators in the replication of epigenetic information across the genome.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cdc20 Proteins / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Cdc20 Proteins / genetics
  • Cdc20 Proteins / metabolism
  • Centromere / metabolism*
  • Chromatin / metabolism
  • Chromosomal Proteins, Non-Histone / metabolism
  • DNA Replication
  • DNA, Fungal / metabolism*
  • Epigenesis, Genetic
  • Histones / metabolism
  • Schizosaccharomyces / genetics
  • Schizosaccharomyces / metabolism*
  • Schizosaccharomyces pombe Proteins / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Schizosaccharomyces pombe Proteins / genetics
  • Schizosaccharomyces pombe Proteins / metabolism

Substances

  • Cdc20 Proteins
  • Cdc20 protein, S pombe
  • Chromatin
  • Chromosomal Proteins, Non-Histone
  • Cnp1 protein, S pombe
  • DNA, Fungal
  • Histones
  • Schizosaccharomyces pombe Proteins